How to Prevent Bloat in Dobermans: What Actually Works

[@ChloroxBanana]

In the last half minute of the video, you mention a link to a video popping up in the corner which discusses the single most important thing on getting your dog off on the right foot to enjoying a healthy life, but nothing appears in that corner when you point to it - at least not on Jan 4, 2021 when I watched the video.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Sorry it didn't pop up for you! Thanks for the heads up! I'll put the link here and pin it for others to see! I'm just really passionate about Doberman health and I think getting the knowledge about your Doberman's underlying health status is the best "first step" you could possibly make. With that info, your Vet can SERIOUSLY be on top of things! Here's the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWPckINpgZ17odk

[@ChloroxBanana]

Thanks, I appreciate having the link. My Doberman is two and a half, and I like getting all the information in your videos.

[@johnnybravoBoyah]

Put a big rock in bowl ...works

[@selinablue7498]

„Can kill your Dobermann“ me staring at my dog: 👁👄👁... you alright?

[@thobbs4526]

Thank you for this very important video. My “love of my life” Doberman was an 8 year old, spayed female. I got her into an emergency veterinarian as soon as I found symptoms (hard abdomen, panting) of bloat. I’ll never forget looking at the X-ray of her stomach...obviously twisted, empty- looking on one side, kibble in the other. I couldn’t understand why her foster, a veterinarian, did not tack her stomach when he spayed her. She immediately went emergency surgery that night, but the phone rang at 6:00 the next morning. She had gone into cardiac arrest, staff tried to revive her, but she died. The last time I saw her was when she wanted to follow me out of the ER vet. 💔 She was very special to me, and I can’t even put it into words. My life was altered forever. This was in 2003. The emergency veterinarian bill was $2,700, although I would have paid or done anything to save her life. I have had 2 Dobermans since her. One died of lymphoma at 6 years. My girl now just turned 6 years, so I watch her, nervously and hopefully, every day. Another vet told me to keep a box of Gas-X, (an OTC medication for humans to relieve gas) on hand, to give to my dog at first signs of bloat. This is NOT a cure, and you still must take your dog to the vet ASAP. I am not a vet, just passing on info that was shared with me.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Thank you for sharing this and I'm so sorry to hear about your experience. She had such a loving and caring owner though which is a true blessing for her while she was here. She could have ended up somewhere else so easily that treated her so much worse. I'm glad you had each other. Who knows, something a lot worse could have happened to her at a much younger age at a less caring owner's house that she could have easily ended up at.

[@thedouglaspodcast]

Omg I’m literally bawling 🥺🥺🥺 thanks for sharing so other people can understand the risk. But man.. I’m so sorry 😔 so sad and I just wanna hug you 😭♥️

[@thedouglaspodcast]

@@DobermanPlanet such a sweet response 🥺 I agree, they seem like a great owner! ♥️

[@gardengirl7258]

Please... no music... it is one of the reasons I like your videos. This aspect adds nothing to the information you provide that is always so spot-on and perfect all on its own.

[@evanelan3257]

You should have mentioned the gastropexy procedure which can now be done pretty easily when neutering /spaying the dog. They do it via laparoscopy which has a minimal incision. Most vets will suggest getting the pexy done same time as neutering to help prevent torsion. It won’t prevent bloat, but it will prevent the stomach from rotating/twisting which is what ultimately kills the dog

[@igortsuker9135]

Doing it for my dobie

[@zengyue6045]

@@igortsuker9135 do you have any feedback for the Roxy 😭 I’m getting mine at the end of the month and the stomach twists really worries me

[@karlicobb6173]

@dobermanplanet do you recommend getting the pexy for prevention?

[@lmyrski8385]

My favorite Doberman as a kid died of this. As a kid back then there was nothing I could do. It was horrible. I've seen a lot of bad things in my life, but remembering that still brings me to tears.

[@xdtrollers5525]

I discovered your channel yesterday and it's the best thing ever I kept watching the whole day

[@majajaspaert8661]

John is the best XD TROLLERS 🐾😉

[@chaos6687]

Its been confirmed! I'm getting a doberman pup in March! Thank you for your videos. I have learned so much

[@raymonddeflaviis2306]

Great and important topic 🤠 partner!

[@countchocula5379]

🤠 👍🏻

[@benjaminnetherton4526]

Love the videos! I'm getting my female dobie next week, couldn't be more excited and your videos have definitely made me feel more confident in doing so!

[@sritaran...___12___...]

Congratulations on the new dogs

[@danijelalise34]

Congratulations!!! I'm so happy for you😀😁😀😀😁😀😆😆😆😆🎊🎊🎊🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎊🎊🎊

[@benjaminnetherton4526]

My only reservation and concern is the crate training/potty training along with the separation anxiety early on. I've watched your earlier videos addressing these issues so hopefully I can succeed!

[@DobermanPlanet]

Congrats Ben, that's so amazing! Take lots of pictures, they grow so fast!

[@cnunley001]

I will get my first doberman in about three weeks. Thanks so much for your help and very precise videos

[@marcedoreste]

Thanks for the tips. It sucks that so many good dogs suffer from this.

[@devanarayananr6941]

Thnx alot sir for addressing one of the most severe issues that the Doberman breed suffers from

[@DobermanPlanet]

Of course, thank you so much for checking out the video!!

[@vettechsrule]

On point, Vettech here for 24 years. Thank you so much for doing this video. The Doberman has always been my breed!

[@geeeemn5010]

Great coverage of a serious Doberman topic John! Thanks for all your research and info!

[@DobermanPlanet]

Thank you, I'm so glad you enjoyed it!!!

[@omethsuduwella8989]

my one died the same way i am in grief I saw this video today and by Doberman was just 6 when she died i am now having knowledge about the deses thank you sir

[@cloverazar5315]

Your videos are always informative and entertaining, but this one in particular is a public service. Sharing the symptoms of bloat the way you did could save a dog’s life. Thank you!

[@Dorko85]

Interesting about the raise bowl - I will still do it as it avoids them bending down so far; just seems more comfortable for the dog.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Yeah I know of a lot of people who use the raised food bowls not at all for bloat, but just for comfort for the dog.

[@igortsuker2884]

Does dog confirm its comfortable? 😀

[@Dorko85]

@@igortsuker2884 100% never a empty bowl 🤣

[@igortsuker2884]

@@Dorko85 never had non empty one in two min. Just think its more natural not to have raised bowls

[@igortsuker2884]

@@thobbs4526 im not a dog. But you pls do Have you seen any wild animals eating from raised bows? Normal and natural position and less % bloated from such

[@TheHumbuckerboy]

Several years ago I knew an impressive brown/red rescued Doberman called 'Sultan' who tragically died at the young age of 2 1/2 years from bloat whilst in kennels . His owner told me that Sultan would gulp down his food and water very quickly . I still feel sad concerning the short and troubled life that Sultan lived. R.I.P King Doberman 'SULTAN' !

[@wolfprowler]

All caught up again. Cheers John Four month old Nyx has been consuming my time lol. She just got her rabies and boosters the other day. Time to expand her friends list!!

[@marinodejesus8024]

Really great information. My parents and myself always fed our last dog 4 small meals a day, just to make sure that never happened. He was a Dobie/Dalmatian mix, a really big boy lol

[@southpawshooters2650]

Great info! I had a bloat scare with my pup a few weeks ago out of nowhere and had to run her to the ER in the middle of the night , it was terrifying! Hopefully these tips will prevent that from happening again. Thanks !

[@DobermanPlanet]

So sorry to hear you had to deal with this! Sounds like it was a happy outcome this time? So glad to hear it!

[@southpawshooters2650]

@@DobermanPlanet Yes we were very fortunate to rush her to the ER where they gave her a pain killer and an IV to calm her down and get her breathing right so we could get her to her normal vet first thing in the morning. There they gave her X-rays and noticed her bowels were bloated with gas and tangled up. The gas was keeping her bowles lodged in place so he vet prescribed us some pain meds and believe it or not... Gasex lol. Shortly after she gassed out the vet office... was horrible but was a good sign of future progress🤣. The first few days were very tough and nerve wracking because she was still shaky and wouldn't eat, so getting the meds down was a task in its own. We had to make a paste mixture with her food and medication and inject it in her mouth with a turkey baster for the first 3 days till she suddenly got her appetite back and started to eat on her own again. Was a bit of tough love but it worked out for the best. Today she's as good as new and even better than before because we also found out she had a thyroid issue and tyrosinen has made her like a puppy again!

[@DJ_Blaker]

Thank you for all your hard work and research on this subject. I had a friend that lost his dobe to bloat. Very sad. I sent him this link as he has another dobe now. Loved how you did the intro lettering on the wall. Another great video. Happy 2021!

[@DobermanPlanet]

Blaker!! Good to see you again man! Thank you, I'm so glad you enjoyed this one! Yeah its a pretty serious topic and I knew the video wouldn't "blow up" and appeal to the masses or anything but I really felt it was an important one to make so I could (hopefully) help someone to prevent this with their dog. This just needed to be out there. Happy New Year to you too!!

[@yugofromwakfu5213]

My dobi is growing bcz of this channel Thank u and arlo

[@DobermanPlanet]

So glad you are finding it useful!

[@mmacejko929]

I’m not a vet but I feel that dogs have eaten off the ground in the wild for years, my doberman will eat off the ground unless there is a condition that prevents him for doing so. One thing we have had to do is remind our kids not to get our doberman excited and running around both before and after eating. As kids they of course want to play with him so it’s been a learning experience for all of us. Great video

[@hectorskmetija3015]

I've always fed my dog's off the ground. Still had bloat 😭 but still feeding off ground. If there is a small chance it might help my dog's, I'll do it. But it's the owners choice.

[@thedoo777]

You hit it out of the park again! Your completeness and even handedness! John you are a blessing

[@DobermanPlanet]

Puck, that means so much to me. Thank you! I'm really glad you are enjoying the information I'm bringing you. Seriously. Means a lot to hear. Don't be a stranger in the comments section!

[@naradtheocd9261]

I love my 5 months old Doberman. He is a extremely fast eater. So we divide the food into several portions. We take him for Regular health check up. But i need to check for Soyabean oil. Due to budget we cant get the premium dog food. We give the one our Vet suggested and is within our Budget Called Drools. We also give him lots of cooked food. Generally boiled chicken and eggs sometimes minced lamb. Dry food is not his main Diet but i need to check for Soyabean oil. Thanks for a wonderful Video as always John. You are a Messiah for Doberman owners around the world. Love from India. I checked they use Fish oil not Soyabean oil. Fish oil is safe right?

[@zekehu7701]

I always use fish oil.....Omega 3

[@naradtheocd9261]

@@zekehu7701 if its safe. I am ok. I dont want harmful stuff in the food

[@zekehu7701]

@@naradtheocd9261 Have giving him Omega from the time he's 12 weeks old. He will be 8 months on the 8th. And our Vet suggested it as well

[@suzannethepatriot8049]

Sounds like you are doing a great job so far!

[@naradtheocd9261]

@@zekehu7701 ya. Our vet said the same. He had a skin problem, which is common for dobies and thin coat dogs. We started giving him eggs everyday. And other supplements and oils prescribed by vet. We massage his entire body with coconut oil, Castor oil and Aloe vera gel. A mixture of three is massaged nicely and we let him sun bath for a hour after the massage which he loves(he likes sun too much and hates water and cold) then give him a nice lukewarm bath. We do this once a week or once in 10 days. Now he has healthy and shiny coat. And we continue this because he enjoys the pampered massage and sunbath. 😅 since its winter. He stays in the sun as long as possible. We just need to massage him.

[@peeweesindebed]

We had our previous Doberman (spayed female) die at 12 years old from this. She was healthy, fit, and certainly didn't look or act her age. Onset was very sudden, with retching and extreme anxiousness. I thought it might be GDV; looked up symptoms online, and called my veterinarian brother (across the country from us) who confirmed the diagnosis. We rushed her to a 24 hour emergency office (this happened in late evening when our normal vet office was closed). Radiograph taken which confirmed the diagnosis again. Faced with her age, we made the most difficult decision of our lives and she was euthanized. My wife and I were with her the whole time. I asked if I could pick her up and carry her from the treatment room to the prep area. The memory of scooping up her limp, lifeless body into my arms for the last time still brings tears. We've had our fifth Doberman for almost 2 years now. She had spay/gastropexy done at 18 months. We've had many different breeds over the years, however, I feel incomplete without a Doberman. John, thanks for all you do in educating people about this wonderful breed: you, and they, are the best!

[@courtneyann1870]

I'm sorry about your Dobe. We just had the same thing with our 10 and a half year old about a month ago. Same exact situation and when the vet couldn't tell us for sure he would survive the surgery or recover from it we made the hard decision as well. On the x ray his intestines were twisted and the other organs around concerned the Dr. I've never heard him cry like he did before we left home and on our way there. 😭

[@joalblo9581]

Your dog is absolutely GORGEOUS! Nice to watch him grow up. Thanks for sharing this with us.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Thank you so much!!!!

[@thedouglaspodcast]

The relief when my dog wasn’t on the list @ 8:30 😭😭😭 thank god lmao. He is a “mix,” so I guess he technically is..but that’s way down at the bottom anyways 🥺 I’m worried about him 24/7 as it is. I always thought that bloat was pretty dang rare so I didn’t want another thing to add to my list of things to freak out about lol. Extremely informative video tho! If I had a Doberman, I’d absolutely subscribe. I’m still gonna be watching through some of your videos anyways because I just learned so much! You’re awesome ♥️

[@bryanferreira9802]

My best bud Boris just went through and had to set him free to the rainbow bridge. He was always super excited to eat. Had a maze food bowl and elevated bowl. I will miss him dearly.

[@arthistoryfreak509]

There is also a surgery that can be done to staple the stomach of a dog to help prevent torsion! This surgery does NOT prevent bloat, but it does prevent stomach torsion which is more often than not what kills the dogs who suffer from bloat. I don't have a Dobie, but I own another barrel chested breed, a 3 year old Dalmatian, and I have been seriously considering this surgery! It can be very hard at times to keep super active and playful dogs calm before and after eating. The surgery comes at quite the price though, so you kinda need to way the pros and cons. Thanks so much for the amazing video! As I said before, I dont own a Dobermann but I love the breed so much. Maybe one day I'll get my dal a Dobie friend 😃 .

[@hectorskmetija3015]

My Doby had that done after his first case, it happened twice more. Not sure I would do it, in hope of prevention. But best of luck.

[@777GodsSoldier]

I currently use a slow feeder bowl (maze bowl) it does help alot. My doberman is a fast eater

[@DobermanPlanet]

Good to hear it's working for you!

[@martaorellana6294]

Happy New Year John! Looking forward to all of your videos in 2021 as they provide important information & training tips!!! 👍🐶

[@carlaantonelli8865]

Thank you for sharing the info. I've lost my last doberman to bloating, he had two episodes one at age 9 and the other at 10. Sadly the last time at age 12. It was sad to see him bloated and couldn't walk, I had to carry him both times to the Vet, thank God I rushed him or I would have lost him! I've had dobermans all my life, he was my 4th one and it came as a shock to me as this never happened to my previous ones. I've got my Jaxx now I'm sure keeping an eye on him, he just turned 8 yesterday! 🍰🎂 Thanks once again for your channel your info is always a great help!

[@hectorskmetija3015]

So sorry for your loss. It's a horrible thing.

[@randall3786]

Love the vid I watch your videos just in case something happens, I will always be prepared for what’s to come. Thanks for the video

[@DobermanPlanet]

Thanks so much Randall! Very glad you enjoyed this one. Thank you for the support! Don't be a stranger!

[@joellealexissando]

Raised food bowls absolutely can cause bloat as compared to regular bowls. It is simple anatomy. The raised bowls allow the food to be eaten easier and it goes down the throat at a quicker pace, because the throat is more open, per say. This is what I have found in all the extensive research I have obsessively done and from what I have found from speaking with people who have had dobes who suffered from bloat. Also, always feed 2 meals per day (and according to my Veterinary Nutritionist) it's actually 2 hours before and after exercise. So, I feed right after waking up and potty, and have her go back to sleep for a couple hours and the opposite in the evening. After 2 hours of rest, then eat, potty, then bedtime. I would have loved if you also touched on the benefits/downfalls of having the stomach stapling procedure done to prevent bloat. Great video! 👍

[@Katzenliebchen]

Having lost a beloved female at age 5 nearly 40 years ago, I had my new baby get a gastropexy when she was spayed. This is certainly in addition to proper exercise, diet, and position of feeding bowl.

[@alphadog5996]

Very educational and good to know. Thanks.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Thank you Alpha, glad you enjoyed it!

[@Rakpro103]

Good info video.... Thanks😃😃

[@marianamontoyag]

Great video, clear and to the point

[@vickiedeal3507]

Another great video with so much info! Thank you!

[@aravindbaiju2584]

Thanks, John bro for the informative video. This video is very beneficial not only for doberman owners but also for other dog owners. Today I saw on youtube a 2.5 months old labrador retriever passed away due to bloat.

[@dianaespinoza2352]

I love your videos and I am thinking about getting a Doberman. Can you make a video of the ear wrapping process and how to do it correctly. Thank you 😊😊

[@mrp2030]

Very very informative. I heard a few things I was doing wrong. Thank you so much for your insight👍🏼❤️

[@silviakapfinger4956]

Happy new year john!✨🎇🎆🌠 Love your videos sooo much,❤❤❤❤🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🙏🙏💙💙 You are the best of the best!!👍👍 Stay safe and healthy!!

[@DobermanPlanet]

Happy new year Silvia! Loved all your support all year! Means a lot!

[@tinkerbell4828]

I'm picking you my first doberman tomorrow. I've been binge watching all your vids 😁

[@D13fs]

Excellent video. Very important people understand how serious this is. See the signs - take action immediately. Happened to my 10 year old male just over 10 years ago. Fatal for him and traumatising for me. I woke up one morning to him retching, saw his belly and knew right away it was bloat. Immediately took him to an emergency vet visit but due to his age, and how far along the condition was, we decided euthanasia was the best option. Vet indicated the surgery was a lot for an older dog, very painful, at best 50/50 chance of survival, and if so very often even more follow up surgeries (more pain). Vet indicated 10 years was actually a good age for a doberman to live to especially since he had lived very healthy til then. I have since met many who told me their dobe's didn't live that long. I had done my research and followed the same guidelines you've listed here. It happened, I wish I woke up sooner. At the time the info I had on raised food bowls gave a slight edge to it being safer to feed with the bowl on the floor, not raised. I did what I could to prevent it, took him to the vet immediately, yet I still feel guilty. Seemed like a strange time of day for him to get it.

[@DobermanPlanet]

I'm so sorry for your experiences. That's horrible. Yeah that raised food bowl thing is tough, there's just so much conflicting information out there about them. Can't kick yourself for how things played out and especially can't judge your actions on what you know now. Judging yourself in hindsight is not a test that ANY of us could pass honestly. You had mercy on your dog which was a GREAT gift to give him. Thanks for the kind words about my video, much appreciated.

[@saraketterer]

Im still convincing my parents to get one and these videos help us sooooooo much :)

[@DougHinVA]

Bloat occurs in certain breeds more. Rhodesian Ridgeback is one and I ran into it. It can be corrected, but when it occurs the dog can die a painful death before you get it to an emergency vet for surgery. It is a rotation of the stomach and read up on it if you have a larger breed dog.... to see if the likelihood is low or high.

[@Greekkitty]

Thank you for this important informative video.

[@reginaslife5634]

Hi I love your channel so much now I wanna get a Doberman soon I hope I will get one

[@marcusolah6245]

I did not know this can happen Thank you for the info!

[@Priscapup]

Bloat is the one thing that scares me so much. Luckily I have never seen it, but I try to keep myself up to date on what it looks like. I don’t feed raised, but I keep the water bowls raised, mostly because my boy, who is about the same age as yours, will lay down to drink if the bowl is on the floor. He does eat really fast, I sometimes feed him in muffin tins, takes him awhile to eat out of those! I am going to check out your pick for a bowl. Thanks for your videos, I always learn something, or at least refresh myself on what I know!

[@deansharp6527]

Thanks for this great advice

[@jedikanton8447]

Thank you for this video!!!!! I really appreciate you helping us so that we know the signs to protect our pups! I’m gonna watch out for these symptoms and take theses suggestions! Thanks!

[@DobermanPlanet]

So glad you enjoyed it Goofy! And for the kind words. Don't be a stranger in the comments on my channel, would love to see you here again!

[@patiencepipim7106]

'' NEW SUB'' THANK YOU FOR HELPING ME OVERCOME MY FEAR OF ACTUALLY THESE TYPE OF DOGS. Now I' m expecting one in three months time. THANKS☺️☺️☺️

[@DobermanPlanet]

So happy to hear that! Congrats on the upcoming new addition to your family, that's so great! Much appreciate the support! :-)

[@kimberlymartin8673]

Congratulations on your up coming family member. We just received our newest Doberman 3 weeks ago and fell in love with the breed 11 years ago because of our Zoey girl. They are awesome animals

[@Pari8]

Thank you for all the info!

[@Deamonicsoul]

Thanks for the good info iv got a duch shaperd but there are a lot of similar traits, weight instincts, intelligence,

[@jayantzutshi5958]

Great video! Will there be an ear posting video coming up?

[@DobermanPlanet]

It's going to be a bit still. And it won't be on KZbin for a lot of reasons. It'll be going out to my newsletter subscribers when it's ready. www.DobermanPlanet.com/newsletter

[@jayantzutshi5958]

@@DobermanPlanet boom subscribed

[@SlaughterHausD]

Great post! I guess I take some things for granite in coming from a LEO background and having been around professional working dogs. They have all told me the one hour rule when watching them care for their partners. I find it surprising that Malinois aren't anywhere on the list. I've seen some of them place an obstacle in the dog's bowl. I bought one of those special bowls when mine was a pup. He no longer requires it but he still inhales his water. We also utilize an elevated feeding station studies may show it doesn't matter but my observation is he doesn't get as much air and blelch the same as when his bowls were on the ground.

[@dobermanguy9437]

Great video John good information

[@DobermanPlanet]

Thank you Stan! I much appreciate your support all the time. Means so much. Glad you enjoyed this one!

[@juliedesjardins6651]

Thanks!! Gastropexia is a really good way to prevent bloat. We did it on Milo 16 months.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Yes, I didn't mention that! Thank you for the comment!

[@debbiekandoll891]

Julie...is it very difficult on male dogs? How long did it take for Milo to recover from his procedure? I know the military does this with all their new “recruits” because GSDs, Dutch Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Vizlas and German Shorthairs all have the deep chest. Thank you in advance for the information.

[@debbiekandoll891]

Hey John...one other thing about Gastropexy is that while it helps tremendously...dogs can still get a rare bloat called mesenteric volvus...or a torsion of the intestines.

[@juliedesjardins6651]

@@debbiekandoll891 we did gastropexia at the same time as castration. So the convalescence was the same time: two weeks.

[@WicKedKhaOs7]

Keep up the videos, very helpful. First time Doberman owner haha.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Thank you so much! Really appreciate it Jay!

[@laserlithuanian]

great video !

[@hectorskmetija3015]

My first Doby "Hector" had twisted gut/bloat 3 times. Not related to food, water or exercise, vet couldn't find cause. Although these are the main reasons. Luckily I had just read about it a few days before. His symptoms were so mild, just walking around the garden with no purpose, without prodding his tummy would never have known. Most dobies have a very high threshold to pain and not show other symptoms, until it's too late. They need operating on in severe cases within two hours. It was described to me as the stomach being a washing machine drum that spins inside the body, causing all the connecting tubs to block, stopping blood flow to vital organs. Hence the need for quick action. After the first time his gut was stiched to the abdomen wall, to lessen the chances of happening again! A year later it did, the operations are major with a long recovery. Basically the vet has to untwist the stomach and straighten out all the tubs vains and all. After the second time it aged him considerably. Couldn't believe it a third time. Again the symptoms were so mild, I even thought maybe I was being paranoid! Only age 7 the vet and I decided it was too cruel to put such a high energy, confident fellow though the operation for a third time. He also had thyroid trouble (daily medication), major arthritis in his knee ( hydrotherapy once a month) and fecking epilepsy. The medication for this was such a large daily dose, the vet ( best in the world 😊, ok just fecking awesome) said he should be hardly able to stay awake. But amazing Hector behaved like he was never even slightly ill. Unless his hydrotherapy was delayed by even a few days his knee would just swell up and back on anti-inflammatories for a week or two. Sorry for the rant, but this is a horrendous way to die. If you have the smallest thought your dog might have twisted gut)bloat. Drop everything and go to the vet, if you are wrong GREAT, might cost for a consultation or emergency call out, plus you might feel silly. But it's your dog's life. Please have a chat to your vet about it soon. Just to see how understanding they are. You don't want to be making an emergency call, for them to tell you to come in tomorrow! Again sorry for rant, but seeing it three times 😭 and loosing the bestest dog ever! If this helps 1 doggy it's worth the rant surely. My 7 month doby pup is wondering why Mum's eyes are leaking, he ain't seen that before 🥰 Another brilliant video from Doby planet THANK YOU 👍 Each time his symptoms were just very mild pacing, not extended tummy but tummy very firm, like trying to put your finger in an massively over inflated balloon. Another cause is drinking lots before or after exercise. This can be difficult to slow down in hot days or after mad play. Just watch them drinking and either remove bowl or leave command for 10 mins.

[@Greekkitty]

I'm so sorry for your loss. I lost my second Dobie to bloat. My heart goes out to you.

[@hectorskmetija3015]

@@Greekkitty Thank you so much, as you know yourself it's heartbreaking to loose your best buddy. Under any circumstances but before their time!!!!!! So unfair. My sympathy goes out to you and others who have lost both 4 and 2 legged loved ones.

[@1901yvonne]

Thank you.

[@evelynbozone5937]

Hello, I been bless with the gift of a 1 1/2 spayed doberman. I love my girl but i am concern with dandruff and awful skin odor. At this age my dobby love chewing everything. I took my dog to the vet but i was told to experient with food change and see if this helped.

[@Anterak123]

I had Dobermans since 1985. I currently have 5 of them (occasional breeder). Bloat is a nightmarish condition to see your dog having. In all my years I have lost 1 female to bloat (She did not made it to the vet and I did not recognized the symptoms...this was before the internet). I almost lost a male a few years later but I recognized the symptoms and was able to bring him to the vet at 1h00 AM and $4000 later my dog was OK (They had to open him and stitch his stomach to the abdominal cavity so it would not twist again). I agree with all the things you mentioned on how to prevent bloat. I would add that dry kibbles is an absolute No No for me. I always soak my dogs kibbles with warm water or bouillon and let them soak completely for at least 30 minutes before giving the bowls to my dogs. Also what is probably the most important thing I do for my dogs, is giving them a big pinch of powdered ******Fennel seeds******* mixed with their food at each meal (I feed them twice per day). Fennel seeds are a natural gas and bloating preventing agent, thus helping to stop the accumulation of gas leading to the bloat condition in our dog. On top of that Fennel seeds are full of nutritious elements for our dogs. To make powdered Fennel seeds, just put them in a coffee grinder and let it rip for a minute. I normally make enough of this powder to last me about a week for my 5 Dobes I actually have.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Interesting tips! Thank you! I haven't heard of the Fennel seeds thing before!

[@frenchie1132]

Isn't it bad to give dogs bouillon because of the salt content?

[@Anterak123]

@@frenchie1132 Yes if you use store bought mix. But if you do your own you do not add salt, just chicken carcass or soup bones and a few spices when ready strain it and voila...

[@frenchie1132]

@@Anterak123 Thank you.

[@urbainouestconstruction]

From a recent video I watched, bloat is from the stomach twisting from being too active after eating, it happens to all barrel chested dogs. Mastiffs aren't even on the list you shared.

[@suzannethepatriot8049]

We thought our Dobe had bloat one day after drinking a ton of water after some rigorous play. A quick KZbin video search of a dog actually going through the symptoms calmed our fears and all ended well. Since then I keep all the info in my phone of where the all night ER vets are located. We made “dry runs” to them as well so that we are familiarity with how to get to them quickly.

[@DobermanPlanet]

You're better prepared than most Suzanne! That's really good to hear. Great idea about getting familiar with seeing what an ACTUAL case of bloat in a dog looks like!

[@suzannethepatriot8049]

@@DobermanPlanet Thanks! But as you know, I am obsessed with my dog. Anything happens to him....it will be a very bad day. You understand.

[@DobermanPlanet]

@@suzannethepatriot8049 Haha oh yes, I definitely understand... and I'm certainly not one to judge on that! :-)

[@theuglydog8044]

I'm glad I found your videos! I'm a bit concerned since mine has some of these symptoms, but they have been there for about a year, ever since he had an infection in his mouth and took antibiotics. I've been thinking maybe he needs probiotics. I'm no longer in The US so vet care is limited (they are used to dogs only living 2 or 3 years, they are shocked to find out mine is 9) and I must try to diagnose everything myself. His vet back home in FL has been helping me, but he can only do so much not actually seeing him, it takes my observations and suggestions. And the water! He won't drink any water, bottled water, filtered water, mineral water nothing, except from puddles and the water from the pool! I don't really like him doing that since it has chlorine, but all the outside dogs we've rescued here, drink it as well and it doesn't seem to bother any of them. He's my 7th Doberman, they have all been great, but 2 have been more than extra special. I actually owe my life to the one I had before him. That's about it. the dog

[@chelsearipley2451]

Thanks for this info, we really appreciate it!

[@WingsAsEaglesMinistries]

Great informative. I’ve often wondered about the raised bowl but I never switched to it on my Great Pyrenees. One is 12 and the other just turned 2. Love this channel

[@DobermanPlanet]

Thank you so much! So glad you enjoyed this one. Yeah that raised food bowl thing is one of those topics where there is SO much conflicting info out there about it. It's hard to sift through! That study I found though was a very interesting one that seem to have a good sample size which is why I liked it.

[@majajaspaert8661]

Thanks for the info John! Finn the doberman and Maja from belgium ❤🐾

[@morganecoleman6006]

Could you please make a video on the best kibble for dobermans? Love your videos!!!! Thank you!!

[@pardeepsaran3036]

Walking your dobermann after eating ? Happy New Year John. Great, informative video as always. I had one question please - I appreciate you should not exercise your dobermann 1hr before or after eating (1-3 hrs after eating some suggest) BUT can you walk them after eating as my 4 month old has a lot of energy after eating especially after his last evening meal?

[@DobermanPlanet]

Definitely talk to your vet on that one. My understanding (and I could be wrong) is that they're referring to strenuous exercise. So if your dog gets out of breath or pants a lot during the walks then it may not be a good idea. If your dog is fairly relaxes the whole time and it's an easy stroll then I'd imagine it's fine!

[@joellealexissando]

I asked my Vet Nutritionist this exact question and she said no walking for an hour and no heavy play or running for 2, pre or post meal. If they have to go potty, quick take them out and then back in with limited activity.

[@dallemon15]

The comment about the water, if water in bowl is getting dirty too fast, make the practice of checking it twice per day, and change to fresh supply if you believe it looks too dirty. Just a suggestion if dog is picky about water dirtiness.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Totally agree, great tip Dallemon!

[@mom-of-many]

You didn't mention getting your Dobermans stomach tacked. That can't stop the stomach from turning.

[@sebastianfarias5670]

THANK YOU !! AMAZING CONTENT, +1 SUBSCRIBER

[@melyndamcfee2339]

What Is your opinion on having the dog’s stomach tact to prevent the stomach twisting? My six month old is about to go in for her spay and I’m having it done at the same time.I felt it was better to be safe than sorry since she’s in for Abdominal surgery anyways

[@JRAM7]

My Doberman drinks water like he's living in a desert. Doesn't know when to stop lol

[@ganeshr1197]

Hi guys, I am looking into getting a dog in the next year, and have been looking into getting a doberman. A little about my situation. I am a doctor in the UK, so do work out of the house and on-call shifts. I currently live by myself. However, I myself am very active and will normally be up 2 hours before leaving for work and exercise in the evenings after work. This means I would be able to take the dog on two walks a day. I am also looking to either getting a dog sitter/day care for when the puppy is younger and I am working, and plan to get a walker or lunch-time visit from a family member when it is a little older. On days I work a 12 hour day, I would make arrangements for the dog to be looked after. I would also be looking to take a lot of leave during the first month of ownership to do some intensive and dedicated training (I've read a lot about training early due to their power and size), but am keen for the on-going training the dog would require. One of the key attributes I like about the doberman is their size, energy and loyalty/love for their owner, but equally their ability to adapt to spending periods of time alone compared to other dogs (as long as they're adequately exercised). I just wanted to know if this is true from people who have experience with them?

[@devanarayananr6941]

From what I know sir the dog will be good for you but I would recommend spending little more time with ur dobie when u get one coz they develop lot of mental issues .I'm not an expert just a kid 😅

[@suzannethepatriot8049]

That is true to a degree. They are also very clingy and being separated for long periods of time is hard on them. We learned that with our first Done when we went on a vacation for 10 days. She barely ate while we’re gone she was so depressed. I would start by leaving the dog alone for short periods then gradually make the time longer and longer. That way, the dog does not get shocked all at once with you being gone for so long. Hope that makes sense.

[@thobbs4526]

Wow, I hate to say this, but I would wait until you have more time. You must be very busy with the current world situation, and Dobermans aren’t called “Velcro dogs” for nothing. I’ve had several, when I as working full-time mom,and part-time and now retired. They really hate being alone & can get quite neurotic. If I was you, I would wait until you have more time. If you have a partner or family, that would be ideal. Otherwise, hire a friendly, reliable dog walker to visit several times a day. I have always had 2 dogs, a Doberman & various small breeds, and they become friends & companions.

[@zengyue6045]

Do you recommend gastropexy? At the time of spay/ neutering?

[@JoeyCarter184]

It’s official! I am getting a black and red doby this year

[@DobermanPlanet]

Congrats! That's so great!

[@JoeyCarter184]

Thanks for helping me learn how to train the Dobermans and also how to prevent sicknesses. Thank you!

[@ien2023]

My Dane died from bloat. I got Irish Wolfhound stomach tack (gastroplexy) and he's already living pass his senior at 10 years. I'm surprise you have not mention this.

[@ATumblelinaTruth7777]

Thank You 😊

[@DobermanPlanet]

Of course! Thank you for checking it out!

[@kimistrikker9802]

Can you do a video on dog collars for Doberman

[@CRAIGJUDEHETZEL]

Good info. I was curious about the raised food dish, I noticed Arlo was eating at floor level. I've fed Kaiser from an elevated platform for his entire 9.3 years of life. I guess this didn't matter at all. Kaiser gets a wet / dry food mix twice a day. He's about 105 and Vet says he's about 5lbs overweight. I do have to be careful, feeding him too soon after exercise. I'll wait the hour, thanks. Kaiser is picky as hell when it comes to his water. If it gets a little warm, he turns his nose up at it. Cold water from fridge, for Kaiser. Good stuff man tell Arlo we said hello.

[@carlosmagno111111111]

Your are the best. Thank you.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Thank you so much!

[@ianlipsey8811]

I have a question I’d like u to make a video on how do male and female Doberman get along in one house hold

[@edwardlangenfeld4326]

Thx for the vids. Had same precautions with our Greyhound. Any news on kibble vs raw foods for bloat instabces?

[@NoBite2]

John, do you have a link to slow feed dog bowls? Have you found any that are stainless steel? I am using a SS bowl with a raised mound in the center. It slowed down my previous dogs a bit. But, my current dog needs something even a little more challenging. Thanks!

[@ssplixz1850]

Can you make a video on the Zip tie posting method for Dobermans ears plz

[@jgmgreen01]

Thanks! This made me double check how much I should be feeding my Doberman..and it looks like I’ve been over feeding him. He weighs 84.6 lbs and usually gets fed between 6-8 cups a day on super active days, which involve long hikes and/or multiple long distance runs, and 4 cups on less active days. He is on the smaller side for a Male Doberman Pinscher, super active and always hungry! Any tips regarding feeding would be greatly appreciated! I also feed him 1/4 cup at a time with a 30-60 second gap in between, otherwise he will scarf it all down even with a “slow feeder..”

[@frenchie1132]

I have a female 90 lb, she gets approx 4 to 5 cups of food a day, a small amount in the morning as she would leave some in the bowl and about 3 cups in the evening after all exercise and play is stopped. She has a couple of healthy treats in the afternoon. He may seem hungry if he has worms.

[@fredrosesalgado8566]

Could you tell me what ear posting method you use? Or recommend me a video?

[@rangerup2674]

Incredible content.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Thank you so much Ranger. Don't be a stranger in the comments!

[@carlybrower8551]

My dobe is getting neutered in a few weeks, they mentioned getting the GVD surgery to tack the stomach. I’m very cautious about agreeing to this added procedure. Did Cooper or Arlo have this done? Thanks so much for the content! I’ve always made decisions for my dobe after researching your website .

[@Rockdog333]

Also, keep Gas-X ( for humans) can be found at drug store or grocery store. Give them the registered dose for humans and go to the Emergency Vet. The gas-X can start making the dog burp gas if he is still in torsion and buy some time on way to Vet.

[@DobermanPlanet]

I've had a few commenters mention this! Thanks for the tip!

[@ginochavez4009]

What do you think about logan pual getting a DOBERMAN